Engaging in the Next

Associations understand that attracting and retaining young professionals within the organization is a must. So, in this episode, we explore ways to customize communication efforts, professional development and volunteer opportunities for these emerging professionals within your association. We talk to Manisha Bhaskar, senior director of communications and development for the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists, about the true value of a long-term commitment in recruiting YPs. 

The need to be a part of a like-minded community has never been more important to millions of industry professionals. In this episode, we talk about community – involving young professionals into your association’s community; planning events that bring together the entire community; and evolving the way we plan those events to create an inviting community. We're excited to chat with Marty Tatman, director of member engagement for the American Farm Bureau Federation, about how associations are leading the way in creating community.  Show notes Marty Tatman currently serves as the director of member engagement for the American Farm Bureau Federation. In his role, he oversees the Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) program, which are members 18-35. In the role, he oversees the national committee, competitions and community outreach programs, as well as the annual leadership conference. During COVID, he became a master at converting in-person events to hybrid, while ensuring members were engaged as well as receiving an experience. He is originally from Wyoming and holds a B.S. in Animal Science from the University of Wyoming and a M.S. in Leadership Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Before coming to AFBF, he worked for the National FFA Organization overseeing their collegiate programs for five years. In his spare time, Marty enjoys running, traveling, grilling and spending time with family and friends. 

Let’s face it, the way associations acquire members has changed immensely in recent years. So, in this episode, we provide ways to boost acquisition and loyalty by letting members talk about their positive experiences. It's called user-generated content and it can create influencers out of your members, suppliers and exhibitors. We chat with Joel Resnik co-founder and chief revenue officer of Gather Voices, about humanizing your association through UGC.    Show notes At 3:15, we discuss 15 Content Ideas to Generate Customer Loyalty (And Signs It's Working), from Forbes  

Open any business-focused publication and you’re going to see article after article discussing the Great Resignation and its impact on employers. But for forward-thinking associations, the Great Resignation can provide great opportunities - both internally and for the industries they serve. Join us as we chat with Kerri McGovern, CAE, senior director of membership for the Association of Corporate Counsel, about these opportunities, the future of work, and ways to stop the exodus within your organization. 

What better topic to start this podcast series than to talk about podcasting for associations. Our inaugural episode features Darrin Scheid, CAE, marketing director at the American College of Emergency Physicians. He talks about how podcasting can help organizations reach young professionals; the challenges associations face when starting a podcast and solutions to those challenges; different formats to consider; and examples of associations that are successfully podcasting today.